Can You Do Auto Shop Heists Solo in GTA Online?
The burning question on many a Grand Theft Auto Online player’s mind is: Can you tackle Auto Shop heists alone? The short and straightforward answer is no, you cannot complete Auto Shop contracts (mini-heists) entirely solo. While the allure of a solo criminal empire is strong, these missions require at least one other player to join you. This may be a disappointment to some, particularly those who prefer playing solo or struggle to find reliable teammates. However, the good news is that while solo play isn’t possible for the heists themselves, Auto Shop contracts are still a profitable and fun experience for players of all styles, whether solo or with a crew.
The Auto Shop Heist Experience
The Auto Shop in GTA Online provides more than just custom car modifications. It unlocks a series of lucrative contracts, essentially mini-heists, that provide a great source of income. These aren’t like the large-scale heists that involve extensive set-ups and story, but rather more contained operations. While they may be smaller in scope compared to, say, the Diamond Casino Heist or the Cayo Perico Heist, Auto Shop contracts offer a unique experience.
Mini-Heist Structure
Unlike the traditional heist structure, Auto Shop contracts are less tedious and offer more variety in gameplay. These missions often involve tasks such as stealing vehicles, making deliveries, or sabotaging rival operations, typically culminating in a final payout mission. Though they can’t be done alone, the game does provide a system for quickly finding a teammate through the matchmaking process. Therefore, while you cannot be a lone wolf, the process to group up is relatively seamless.
Payout and Profitability
Even though you need at least one partner for Auto Shop heists, the payouts are still worthwhile. These contracts, especially with bonuses, are a great way to make consistent income in GTA Online. The base payout for an Auto Shop contract is a standard $162,000, which can be increased up to $480,000 during promotional periods or with special in-game events. First-time completion bonuses can also yield up to an extra $75,000. While not the highest payout in the game, the combination of fast missions and good payouts make them a great way to quickly make some money.
Auto Shop vs. Arcade
Players often compare the Auto Shop to the Arcade when looking at potential business ventures. While the Arcade does offer passive income through its safe, the Auto Shop is considered better for active, solo-leaning players seeking faster income. The Arcade’s safe income is tied to the number of arcade games purchased which can be expensive. The Auto Shop contracts, even though not fully solo, generally offer better payouts and a more interactive experience. If you are looking for quick, engaging missions that are more lucrative than passive income, then the Auto Shop is generally considered the better choice.
Solo Money-Making in GTA
Though Auto Shop heists need at least one extra person, GTA Online offers a variety of activities that can be done alone, including the incredibly profitable Cayo Perico Heist, which is the only full heist that can be completed solo. Additionally, businesses like Special Cargo Warehouses can be purchased and managed completely solo. You can purchase cargo and sell shipments easily from your CEO office. While the Auto Shop requires a teammate for its missions, don’t think that there aren’t any other ways to rake in cash in GTA Online on your own.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to help you better understand Auto Shop heists and other related aspects of GTA Online:
1. What are Auto Shop Contracts in GTA Online?
Auto Shop contracts are mini-heists unlocked by purchasing an Auto Shop property. They involve a variety of tasks, such as stealing vehicles, sabotage, and delivering goods, often culminating in a final payout mission.
2. Can I do Auto Shop contracts completely solo?
No, you cannot complete Auto Shop contracts entirely solo. You will need at least one other player to join you for these missions.
3. What is the standard payout for Auto Shop contracts?
The standard payout for an Auto Shop contract is $162,000. This amount can increase during special events and bonuses.
4. What is the maximum possible payout for Auto Shop contracts?
With bonuses and special events, payouts can reach up to $480,000. First-time players also often receive an additional $75,000 bonus.
5. What are the requirements to start an Auto Shop in GTA Online?
You need to purchase an Auto Shop property in Los Santos. These properties range in price, with the cheapest costing $1,670,000.
6. Is the Auto Shop better than the Arcade for money-making?
For active players looking for quicker payouts, the Auto Shop is generally considered better than the Arcade. The Arcade offers passive income, but this is tied to the expensive purchase of arcade games.
7. Can the Diamond Casino Heist be completed solo?
No, the Diamond Casino Heist cannot be done solo. You need at least two players to complete it.
8. Which is the only heist that can be done solo in GTA Online?
The Cayo Perico Heist is the only heist in GTA Online that can be completed entirely solo.
9. What is the most profitable heist in GTA Online?
The Diamond Casino Heist offers the highest potential payout, reaching upwards of $10 million on hard difficulty.
10. How do you make money as a solo player in GTA Online?
Solo players can earn money from activities such as Special Cargo Warehouses, the Cayo Perico Heist, and various other missions.
11. Is the Counterfeit Cash Factory a good business?
The Counterfeit Cash Factory is considered a mid-tier business in terms of profitability. It’s not as good as a Cocaine Lockup or Meth Lab but better than the Weed Farm or Forgery business.
12. What is the best way to make money fast in GTA Online for beginners?
Beginners can make money fast by taking advantage of bonus cash modes, spinning the casino wheel daily, completing treasure hunts, picking a career, and participating in heists.
13. What is the cheapest Auto Shop you can buy in GTA Online?
The cheapest Auto Shop is located in Mission Row, costing $1,670,000.
14. What are the most expensive Auto Shops in GTA Online?
The most expensive Auto Shops are located in La Mesa ($1,920,000) and Burton ($1,830,000).
15. Where are the best places to find good cars in GTA Online?
Some of the best spots for finding good cars are La Puerta – Puerta Del Sol Marina Car Park, Rockford Hills, Del Perro Pier, and Vespucci Beach.
Conclusion
While you cannot embark on Auto Shop heists entirely solo, these contracts offer engaging gameplay and good payouts that make them a viable money-making method for all players. Partnering up is necessary but the rewards and pace of the contracts are worthwhile. Whether you’re looking to build a solo criminal empire or just looking for new ways to make money, Auto Shop contracts offer something for everyone in GTA Online. Don’t hesitate to dive in and experience the action, even if you need a friend to back you up.